Overall, I like ALEKS. I have only used it for four months with some of our struggling math students, but I have seen some (the ones that really try) improve over the short time we have used it.

Scenario

What challenges did the class or school face in math prior to using ALEKS? These kids are not succeeding in their math class. They are in the regular math class and in this class, so they have two math classes every day. They also struggle with simple math problems.

How many days per week is class time dedicated to ALEKS? 3 days per week.

What is the average length of a class period when ALEKS is used? 45 minutes.

Implementation

How do you implement ALEKS? I use it for remedial work right now.

How do you structure your class period with ALEKS? Since it is a remedial class, they bring in their homework from their math class to get help with and if they don't bring it or have any, they work on ALEKS. I happen to have them at the end of the day, which makes it nice.

How often are students required or encouraged to work on ALEKS at home? I tell them they can, but many of them do not have access to computers and Internet at home.

How do you cultivate parental involvement and support for ALEKS? I really have not.

Grading

Is ALEKS assigned to your students as all or part of their homework responsibilities? If so, what part of the total homework load is it? No.

How do you incorporate ALEKS into your grading system? ALEKS is about 60 percent of their total grade. I am not supposed to give homework in this class, so I have been giving them participation grades and then quizzes once in a while.

Do you require students to make regular amounts of progress in ALEKS? Not at this time.

Learning Outcomes

Since using ALEKS, please describe the learning outcomes or progress you have seen. The students that want to learn are making small steps in their progress. A few also like to see their progress. The ones that care see their progress and get excited about it.